Things to do & places to visit in County Antrim, United Kingdom

County Antrim #36 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.51 based on 39.8k traveler reviews, of 47 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 8:36.

County Antrim Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

56°F - 45°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly and breezy

Feels like

29%

Chance of rain

93.0 millimeters

Amount

16.6 mph

Wind speed

81%

Humidity

16.0

Daylight length

5:20 AM

Sunrise

9:22 PM

Sunset

41%

Cloud cover

Jacket

What to wear

Top things to do (45)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Causeway Coastal Route (2.129 reviews)
- Wonder of the world
Beaches • Scenic Drives • Scenic Walking Areas

The Causeway Coastal Route is a designated tourist drive around the coast of Northern Ireland between Belfast and Londonderry. The route follows the coast and takes you to several major tourist attractions including The Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Dunluce Castle, The Old Bushmills Whiskey Distillery and the Glens of Antrim. There are a further nine shorter scenic routes that loop off the main Coastal Route. These are : Islandmagee, Slemish Mountain, Glenariff, Glendun, Torr Road, Glenshesk, Bann Valley, Binevenagh Mountain and the Roe Valley. See more..
5.0 Alive Adventures (721 reviews)
- Great Surfing Session
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Surfing & Windsurfing

My 13year old daughter and her friend went to one of the kids sessions. They had both surfed before several times. Friendly and relaxed instructor - he was very "rad" and "cool"!!! The waves were good so they had plenty of opportunities to practice during the session. At 2 hours the sessions are quite long particularly for younger kids but they thoroughly enjoyed it. At £72 for 2 kids it is pretty expensive but think most of the schools in the area are charging the same price See more..
5.0 Coasteering NI - Private Tours (570 reviews)
- Best Day Out in Ages
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Private Tours

This is quite simply one of the best activities I have done in Northern Ireland. Enjoyed every minute of it from start to finish. The instructor was friendly, clear and calm during the whole time. He seemed to genuinely enjoy the time and took great pleasure in the achievements of everyone. The wetsuits and buoyancy gear was first class and kept us warm throughout the 2hrs. We were eased in with some rock scrambling and low jumps. Then worked out way through some more fun activities before rounding off with higher jumps. The final high one was scary but so glad we did it! A reasonable level of fitness required but there are plenty of work round and alternatives for those who are not so brave or adventurous. Highly recommend adding this to your plans when you visit the area See more..
5.0 Sheans Horse Farm (520 reviews)
- Super experience on the picnic trail!
Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Horseback Riding Tours

Enjoy the most extensive Horse / Pony Trekking and Hacking facilities along Ireland’s North Coast at Sheans Horse Farm. Sheans Horse Farm is a Riding School and Trekking Centre on the McKinley family farm in the North Antrim hills. Our riding takes place on miles of offroad tracks that wind high into the beautiful North Antrim Hills. Beginners or confident riders can experience the freedom, fun and buzz of horse riding at Sheans Horse Farm. See more..
5.0 Ulster Aviation Society (423 reviews)
- Informative and enjoyable day out
Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

WHO ARE WE? A charitable society that is a diverse group of enthusiasts, working on a voluntary basis to further public education in the history of aviation. WHAT AIRCRAFT DO WE HAVE? Our heritage collection currently includes 46 aircraft, ranging from vintage Second World War fighters through Cold War era fast jets, Shorts designed & built aircraft, civilian aircraft, plus military helicopters, engines, artefacts and rare aviation reference materials, all with strong links to aviation within the island of Ireland. Our aircraft are housed within an ex-Second World War hangar at Maze Long Kesh, outside Lisburn (on the site of the old prison). • Charitable association of Aviation Enthusiasts • Over 720 members, including Europe & USA Ulster Aviation Society is a charitable association. N. Ireland. Charity No. NIC 100128. NI Charity Commission Registered. Associate member of Northern Ireland Museums’ Council See more..
5.0 Supercar Experience Ireland (259 reviews)
- All in all, a brilliant day!
Adrenaline & Extreme Tours

From start to finish, the team provided a fantastic experience. The ladies in the reception, were so friendly and helpful. Each instructor took time to explain the car. They were all brilliant! They were fabulous at putting me at ease, helping me to relax and I felt totally comfortable heading out onto the track. I would 100% recommend this experience if you are into cars and fancy the chance to drive on a track. I will say the track laps are short. I’d have loved a drive round first to get a feel for the track and car, or maybe have the instructor show me first what to do whilst he drove around, to get the benefit of the three actual speed laps, however I know this would all add to the cost. I felt like I was just getting used to the track by car 3, but then I suppose you can buy extra laps during your time on the track, if you decide you want more time out there. All in all, a brilliant day! See more..
5.0 Portrush Surf School (235 reviews)
- Paddleboarding is a winner!!!!
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Surfing & Windsurfing • Stand Up Paddleboarding

Booked a surprise paddleboarding lesson for Johnnys birthday and from start to finish it was amazing. The guys were so professional and polite when we arrived, kitted us out with the all the gear then Hector took us out for our lesson. He made it extremely enjoyable and even managed to get someone who is afraid of the sea out riding the waves. Its a worthwhile experience and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to step outside their comfort zone. Top tip: Don't believe it when Hector tells you to put your feet on the black dots at the back of the board hahaha you go vertical and fall in. So much fun we will definitely be back. Thanks so much guys Jenny and Johnny. See more..
5.0 Causeway Coasteering (218 reviews)
- Causeway Coast Adventure
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours

Had a great time swimming in the sea, climbing rocks, and diving off cliffs! This is definitely an "adventure" activity--requiring a fair amount of stamina and a bit of courage. That said, I felt completely safe and well looked-after the whole time. Matt (the owner) was very flexible about rescheduling when the surf wasn't accommodating on the day of my original booking, and Cameron (my guide) was energetic and knowledgeable on the the day. One bit of advice: the website says (truthfully) that you can wear trainers/athletic shoes coasteering. However, you will spend most of your time swimming in the sea, so ordinary shoes will get waterlogged instantly, and it's no small matter to dry them off while traveling in the Irish climate. If you're planning any additional waterspouts in the foreseeable future, I'd strongly recommend investing in a set of surf shoes or boots. See more..
5.0 The Spa Dunamoy (217 reviews)
- Our Favourite Place
Spent More than 3 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Spas • Thermal Spas

The Award winning 4 star Spa at Dunamoy is only 14 miles North from Central Belfast, but here you will find peace and tranquility in the heart of the rolling Co Antrim Countryside. The Spa features multiple treatment rooms, including the dual bath/massage suite, a 10m spa pool and solarium/ relaxation area. The Spa at Dunamoy is proud to be one of the few able to showcase award winning brand Elemis, featuring specially selected treatments from this leading luxury spa and skincare brand. These include signature facials, detox rituals and luxurious body massage, plus a well stocked shopping area for the perfect gift. Escape with friends or book a romantic getaway, either as a day spa customer or a resident in one of our beautiful stone cottages See more..
5.0 Coast Road (210 reviews)
- Beautiful
Scenic Drives

The coastal road in Northern Ireland is beautiful. One of the best scenic views you will see in the world. around every bend is more stunning scenery, It is endless and never stops. See more..
5.0 East Strand (197 reviews)
- Fresh sea breeze.
Spent 1-2 hours Beaches

Perfect beach for young children: good clean sand and long stretches with clear views. The water is cold when you first go in but soon warm up running in and out! Perfect to build up an appetite. Fussy eaters were looking for extras. See more..
5.0 War Years Remembered (War Museum) (184 reviews)
- Excellent the best war era museum we have had the pleasure of visiting.
Military Museums

I can not recommend this museum highly enough, the exhibits are fantastic, the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guide really brought the stories to life. I have been to a few D-Day and Somme museums but this has topped them all. I spent 4.5 hours here and could easily have stayed for another 4.5 hours. Guides knowledge was so extensive that they were able to help trace where my wife’s great grandfather was taken prisoner with just his regiment and his date of capture. See more..
5.0 Troggs Surf School Portrush (157 reviews)
- Fab fun time for all
Monday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Surfing & Windsurfing • Gear Rentals • Stand Up Paddleboarding • Day Trips

We booked a 2 hour paddleboard session with Troggs - family of 4 including a teenager with physical disabilities. I have to say Ethan and Albert were excellent. They made sure we all had a fab time, taking great care of my son but also making sure he was part of the action. Two capable, professional and fun guys - can't recommend Troggs Surf School highly enough. See more..
5.0 Jeanette Kidd Beauty and Day Spa (125 reviews)
- TOP MARKS
Monday: 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM Spas

An award winning salon and day spa, located only seven miles from Belfast and five minutes from Sprucefield, Lisburn. This Decleor Salon of Excellence, is a little hidden oasis in the hustle and bustle of busy city life. Finalists in the British Beauty & Spa Awards and proud holders of RNIB Model of Excellence for the Blind and Partially Sighted. We use a range of top quality products that include Decleor, St Tropez, Jessica, He-shi tanning, Australian body care tea tree range and Karaja, an Italian make-up range which clients and staff adore. With 30 years of business you can be assured of professional and friendly service from the moment you step through our doors. Established in the heart of Lisburn, our Decleor Salon and Day spa prides itself on fantastic customer service, being awarded by Lisburn City Council only confirms the standard of service that we provide. All our therapists are fully trained and able to offer advice on all aspects of skincare. See more..
5.0 Blackhead Path (124 reviews)
- Great brazing walk,lots of views and lots of steps
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Hiking Trails

Whoohoo, five years minus four months after we moved to Whitehead the Blackhead Path is fully open! The only detriment is that it is now crowded each weekend, so as locals we use early mornings and late nights OR drive up to the golf course parking space and walk from there. We continue walking on the road, go past a few houses down steep steps, turn left at the bottom and then, when the path forks, right to circle the lighthouse, up 144 steps to get to the lighthouse, and rejoin the paved road to walk back. That's 1-2 hours, depending on how fit the dog is. See more..
5.0 Sub6 Surf School (123 reviews)
- Fantastic surf lessons with an instructor who makes it fun
Surfing & Windsurfing • Stand Up Paddleboarding

I booked my kids into a surf session with Conall in July. My boys loved it and found Conall great fun as well as a fab surf instructor. I was super impressed with the skills the kids were taught, they were actually standing up on the boards quite quickly. Above all else they had so much fun. The wetsuits provided fitted well and were thick winter wetsuits so the kids were warm throughout. Would highly recommend sub 6 for a kids or family surf session. Thank you sub6. See more..
5.0 Abhainn Cruises (95 reviews)
- 5 ⭐️ experience
Monday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Historical & Heritage Tours • Boat Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Speed Boats Tours

5 ⭐️ fun for all the family! Our family ages range from forty something to an eight year old and every one of us enjoyed this trip. The skipper kept us entertained sharing his extensive knowledge of the coastline and wildlife. The highlight was jumping in to the sea and swimming over to the beach under carrick-a-Reed rope bridge. It was like something out of a James Bond movie See more..
5.0 Giant Tours Ireland (92 reviews)
- Fantastic tour!
Monday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Multi-day Tours • Movie & TV Tours • Private Tours

Flip is FANTASTIC!! He fit our family in last minute and gave us a private tour around the Antrim Coast. Walked the Giants Causeway with us and got us to Carrick-a-Rede in time to cross before they locked the gate. So much knowledge about the Causeway and how it was formed - my kids still talk about how special that day was on our trip. Next time when the kids are older we will definitely do the Games of Thrones tour! Thanks Flip! See more..
5.0 ALTESC VR Arcade (77 reviews)
- Fantastic birthday party experience
Monday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers

ALTESC Virtual Reality Gaming Arcade enables you to experience worlds and environments that you have only ever dreamed about. Don’t just play a game, live it! experience truly immersive gaming where you become one with the game. ALTESC VR is Northern Irelands Leading Virtual Reality Arcade - providing our community with access to cutting edge technology and experiences. We cater for all events, from kids birthdays to Corporate team building exercises. Explore galaxies & oceans, journey inside the human body, climb mountains, soar through the skies or just strap on the headset and blast hoards of zombies. You decide! At ALTESC VR we offer the latest in Virtual Reality Full Motion Racing Simulators. See more..
5.0 Kintra Boat Tours (74 reviews)
- Great way to see breathtaking scenery
Boat Tours

We went out on a misty Monday morning thinking that we wouldn’t see much however we were pleasantly surprised. As the mist lifted to reveal some stunning scenes providing a backdrop for the knowledgeable crew to share some really interesting facts and info about the local area. The trip lasts roughly 1hr 30mins and is very reasonably priced at £20 , tickets can be purchased online . I would recommend that you get there at least 10 mins before you allocated time to ensure you get a good seat . Great experience , thoroughly recommend. See more..
5.0 Glens of Antrim (62 reviews)
- Waterfoot Beach
Valleys

There are nine glens of Antrim: these green, tree-filled valleys by the sea are some of the most scenic spots in Europe. See more..
4.5 Giant's Causeway (11.5k reviews)
- Absolutely Amazing
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

Northern Ireland's most popular tourist destination: this large stretch of staircase-shaped rocks is the result of cooled lava from volcanic eruptions that took place over 65 million years ago. See more..
4.5 Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge (4.643 reviews)
- Great Fun!
Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Spent 1-2 hours Bridges • Scenic Walking Areas

Important notice - from Monday the 8th of November 2021 Carrick-a-Rede site is now closed. We will re-open in 2022 See more..
4.5 Bushmills Distillery (2.819 reviews)
- Interesting & enjoyable, perfect length of tour- ask for Rickie!
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:45 PM Distilleries

Opened in 1608, this is the oldest licensed distillery in the world and exports its whiskey internationally. See more..
4.5 Dunluce Castle (2.668 reviews)
- Castle Engineering from Centuries Ago Is Amazing
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Castles

Excellent view of castle and village life. They offer free 1-hour tours twice a day. Be sure to take one so you can appreciate the architecture. The point of the tour is to see how the castle changed over time according to what family owned it. High points for me were learning they had glass windows, had baking ovens and two-story fireplaces for cooking. From a distance you think the castle is not that big, but once there, it is huge. The stonework is extraordinary! See more..
4.5 The Dark Hedges (1.882 reviews)
- An eerily spooky location, must be visited if in the area.
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Scenic Walking Areas

My wife and I viisted this location early one morning to take photos before the crowds of tourists arrived. On arrival we met #thirdeyetraveller who was shooting a video blog for her website. She was very friendly and we discussed various locations we had both visited. The location was used as the Kings Road in the series game of thrones and is a traffic free lane of trees all gnarled and twisted covering the road to spectacular effect. We spent time there to see sunrise at location and enjoyed banter with Canadian and Italian photographers who were also visiting to avoid crowds. Whether you are a photographer or not. I would recommend a visit if in the area as it is truly spellbinding and one for your bucket list. See more..
4.5 Carrickfergus Castle (982 reviews)
- Well worth the visit!
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Castles

Due to the military impenetrability of this castle the town of Carrickfergus long thrived even when surrounding villages suffered defeats. See more..
4.5 Ballintoy Harbour (823 reviews)
- Need to arrive early!
Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Piers & Boardwalks

We knew that there was only a small car park so ensured that we visited early in the morning, around 9:30am. Even then the car park was almost full, and we were fortunate that somebody was just leaving. It was lovely to walk around the harbour and over the rocky outcrop, watching the waves breaking over the shoreline. We returned to the cafe and bought drinks and cakes to sit on one of the numerous benches overlooking the bay. As we left later in the morning, there was chaos on the roads, as cars had parked on the hairpin bends, and a stream of traffic was heading down, and with nowhere to park were left to just turn round and go back up, creating even more problems. It is a lovely place to see, but keep away when it is busy unless you are arriving on foot or bicycle. See more..
4.5 Antrim Castle Gardens (543 reviews)
- Beautiful Gardens
Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Gardens

The Antrim Castle Gardens site is an absolute gem and you will find nothing like these 400 year old gardens anywhere else. A recent £6m restoration project which received generous support from Heritage Lottery Fund has now preserved this historic site for generations to come. The Gardens are a unique living museum, with layer upon layer of design features and planting added over the centuries. Indeed, rarely is so much history preserved on one site. The many exceptional features include the ancient Motte, the Large Parterre, the Yew Tree Pond and the Pleasure Gardens. See more..
4.5 Rathlin Island (454 reviews)
- Beautiful and Unspoilt!
Islands

Between Ballycastle and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland, Raithlin Island is eight miles long and barely one mile wide. See more..